Ballygunner’s remarkable grip on club hurling has been strengthened yet again, with eight of their players named on the 2025/26 AIB GAA Club Hurling Team of the Year.

The Waterford champions, who powered to another All-Ireland title, also sweep the shortlist for Hurler of the Year, with Dessie Hutchinson, Paddy Leavey and Stephen O’Keeffe the three nominees.

Their selection reflects a season in which Ballygunner overcame a demanding provincial campaign, seeing off Na Piarsaigh, Sarsfields and Éire Óg Ennis before holding firm against St Martin’s and Loughrea in the All-Ireland series.

Goalkeeper Stephen O’Keeffe, whose heroics in the final were widely praised, becomes a five-time award winner, the most decorated player since the awards began in 2018.

Hutchinson collects his fourth honour, while Leavey, Kenny, Hogan, Mahony, O’Neill and Ruddle complete the club’s impressive haul.

All-Ireland finalists Loughrea are also recognised, with Shane Morgan, Cullen Killeen and Anthony Burns included after a campaign defined by intensity, work rate and sharp finishing.

Leinster champions St Martin’s see five players honoured, including brothers Jack and Rory O’Connor, who led their attack with experience and composure.

The team was chosen by a panel of Gaelic games correspondents across print, radio, television and digital media.

Awards will be presented at a special ceremony in Croke Park on Friday, 13 March.